Toyota Ferrari Mr2
Toyota will resurrect the mid-engined MR2 in 2026, commonly referred to as the 'poor man's Ferrari.' So why not incorporate some Maranello-style curves? A recent video posted by Gazoo Racing confirms a new "mid-engined two-seater" will be showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon later this week. Toyota teases a possible MR2 comeback with a short.
All signs are pointing towards a new Toyota MR2 on the horizon, but what can we expect from it? Here's everything we know so far. When the MKII Toyota MR2 was launched, it not only offered performance on a budget but drawing styling cues from the Ferrari 348 meant that the second-generation MR2 was dubbed the "poor man's Ferrari". In 1989, the MR2 went through a big redesign, softening the straight lines of the MKI, and adding a larger and more comfortable interior.
This meant the car weighed as much as 400 lbs. As intriguing as it is to think about a Toyota MR2 taking its exterior cues from the likes of Ferrari, looks are but one aspect of the rumors surrounding the vehicle's supposed 2026 revival. Its functionality was all but identical to that of Ferrari's much-ballyhooed F1 single-clutch transmission, found first in the F355 and then offered in the MR2.
The MR2, Toyota's mid-engine sports car, debuted in 1984 and was built for three generations, with production ceasing in 2007. A compact two-door with the engine in the middle would fill a gap in Toyota's rather impressive range of enthusiast vehicles. The trademark filing for a Toyota GR MR2 nameplate is likely about to be put to use.
Whether or not Toyota actually shows off something like an MR2 successor today, the brand made its interest in a mid. Toyota MR2 (Mk2, 1989-1999) icon review: mid-engined thrills for the masses The Toyota MR2 was nicknamed the 'poor man's Ferrari', but was that actually high praise rather than the insult it.